Heartbroken family pay tribute to 'gentle giant' killed outside nightclub
A heartbroken family have paid tribute to their "gentle giant" after he was stabbed to death outside a nightclub.
Michael Allen, 36, was pronounced dead at the scene after seven others were stabbed outside Eclipse Nightclub in Bodmin, Cornwall in the early hours of Sunday.
Police raced to the scene at 3.15am on Sunday where they found several people suffering stab wounds, and seven were taken to hospital where they are not believed to be in a life-threatening condition.
Five have since been released with two people remaining in hospital as they recover from surgery following the attack.
Michael, who was known as Mike, was described as someone who was "much-loved" by his family.
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Mike Allen's family paid tribute to him today in a statement (Devon & Cornwall Police)In a statement shared via police, they said: “Mike was simply a much-loved son, brother, grandson, and uncle who loved his dogs.
“His family would like to respectfully request privacy at this time”.
A 24-year-old man from Bodmin has been arrested on suspicion of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
Michael was known as 'Mike' by pals (Facebook)This morning police were granted a further 36-hour extension to detain and question the suspect.
Pals paid tribute to the popular rugby player online and described him as someone who "made everyone laugh".
They wrote online: "Gentle giant you were an amazing and loving guy. you never said a bad word about anyone RIP Big Mike."
A second wrote: "Shocking news thoughts go to his family and all that know Mike RIP mate. we had some class times together I won’t ever forget!
Police forensics continue to search in Bodmin after a stabbing in the early hours of Sunday (SWNS)"You never failed to make everyone laugh and always helped anyone out whenever you could.
"Thanks for all the laughs and awesome memories you will be missed by all."
Another added: "Rip Mike one of the nicest guys around can’t believe it so sorry to all his friends and family gutted rest easy Mike xx."
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Mike played for Bodmin RFC who described him as "a big part of our squad" and will be remembered for his "humour and kindness".
Flowers left at the scene following a stabbing that left seven injured and one dead (SWNS)In a post on Facebook, they wrote: "It is with great sadness that we can now announce the passing of our player and friend Mike Allen (Chabel).
"Mike came to the club earlier this season and quickly became a big part of our squad. His humour and kindness have left a mark on us all and we will miss him dearly.
"Our thoughts are with Mike’s family at this devastating time.
Forensics at the scene on Sunday after the stabbing (Ryan Jenkinson / Story Picture Agency)"There is a memorial set up outside the rugby club where people are welcome to come to pay their respects and lay flowers. Fly high brother."
A tribute site has been set up at Bodmin Rugby Club, where people can gather to remember Mike. Local officers will also be there to help support the local community and this community hub will run from 4-6pm today and then twice daily from 10am-midday and 4-6pm for the next week.
Detective Inspector Ilona Rosson from the Major Crime Investigation Team said: “Our investigation continues into this matter, and we continue to ask the public for their help.
“If you have any information that relates to this murder and have yet to have spoken with the police, please come forward immediately.
"The information to have, no matter how small you may feel it could be, could be vital to our investigation.”
If you witnessed the incident or have any information, including footage that could help with enquiries, please contact police via the Major Incident Public Portal:
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